If you want to experience real downtown vibes, you have to visit Omoide Yokocho at least once!
Omoide Yokocho | Review by 洪文祥
Other Reviews by 洪文祥
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Futagami Mountain Manyo Line
Mt. Futagami, with an elevation of Approx. 274 meters, stands near the border between Takaoka City and Himi City in Toyama Prefecture. The Futagami Mountain Manyo Line is an Approx. 8-kilometer scenic driving route that runs along the mountain ridge. On clear days, it offers spectacular views of Toyama Bay and the Noto Peninsula on one side, and the Tateyama Mountain Range on the other. From the observation deck near the summit, you can take in a panoramic view of Takaoka City.
It’s a very laid-back ride, the kind where you just sway along and enjoy the scenery. Along the way you can see residential neighborhoods and mountain views, and the whole pace feels really relaxed without the stress of huge tourist crowds.
When the weather is nice, just sitting on the train and looking out the window feels surprisingly soothing. Great for anyone who’s not in a rush and wants an easy ride with nice views. -
Arakogawa Park
An urban park stretching along both banks of the Arakogawa River in Minato Ward, Nagoya. About 1,000 Somei Yoshino cherry trees line the riverside, and the park turns a soft pink each spring. The cherry-lined path runs for about 1 kilometer, drawing crowds for strolls and picnics. The annual Sakura Festival, held from late March to early April, features concerts, workshops, and food trucks timed to the cherry blossom season.
During cherry blossom season in spring, it really feels like sakura time. The whole riverside looks gorgeous in bloom, but it doesn’t get so crowded that it becomes annoying.
On regular days, there’s lots of greenery and the air feels nice—it's a great place to just sit and zone out.
The park is pretty spacious, so walking around doesn’t feel cramped. Perfect if you want some quiet time, or just stroll and chat. -
Tanigawa Plum Grove
Located in Tachibana-machi, Yame City, about 1 hour by car from central Fukuoka City, this plum grove is known as one of Kyushu’s three great plum gardens. Around 20,000 white plum trees are planted across vast rolling hills spanning Approx. 800,000 hectares, reaching their best viewing season every year from mid to late February.
A whole hillside of blooming plum trees feels really soothing.
It’s not too crowded, so you can walk around slowly and take photos without feeling packed in. The floral scent is light and pleasant, but it’s not the kind of place that makes you go wow right away. If you’re already in the area and visit during plum blossom season, it’s definitely nice. Making a special trip just for this probably depends on the person.